Tractor operator gets 18-year sentence for killing drinking buddy

A tractor operator was sentenced to 18 years in prison on Thursday for the fatal stabbing of his drinking companion in Upper Berbice River.

Maxton Walker, 30, of Hururu Mission, Upper Berbice River, was convicted at the Berbice High Court for the 2024 killing of Marcus Adrian.

Justice Simone Morris imposed the sentence following Walker’s guilty plea in April.

Court documents said the incident occurred on March 18, 2024, at 7 Mile, Hururu Mission, after both men—who had worked together in the logging industry—consumed alcohol, including High Wine, Guinness, and Turbo.

Prosecutors said an argument escalated into violence, during which Walker allegedly attacked Adrian with a cutlass, inflicting multiple chop wounds to the neck and face. Adrian fled but later collapsed on a trail, where his body was found with 23 incised wounds.

State Prosecutor Marisa Edwards said the attack was intentional and severe, citing extensive injuries, including 13 wounds to the neck region.

Walker was later detained by the village Toshao and handed over to police.

Justice Morris described the killing as unnecessary and tragic. Walker received a one-third reduction in sentence for his guilty plea and will be eligible for parole after serving 15 years.